★ Hawaii Vacation Programs ★ Hawaii Homestay ★ Hawaii Language Schools ★ Kona Hawaii ESL
Universal English Academy
Culture ★Nature ★Communication ★Education ★Adventure
Kona Hawaii's Original English Language School & Homestay Program
Universal English Academy LLC PO Box 391128 Keauhou, Hi 96740 Ph.808-936-2179
★ Kona Hawaii ESL ★ Hawaii Homestay ★ Hawaii Language Schools ★ TEFL Certification
◆Do I need a Student Visa to join your programs？
Our vacation-study package programs have been designed to qualify as a package tour. This means you do not need a Student Visa. If you are from a Country that has a 90 day visa waiver agreement with the United States you are eligible to join our program as a tourist.
◆How is and when is payment required？
So that you may be comfortable, payment is due in full at the time of orientation. Payment may be made in cash or Traveller's Checks. Some program require a credit card # to secure the reservation.
◆What ages may join the programs？
You must be over 18 to join any of our regular programs. There is no age limit after that. Several weeks a year we offer a special program for kids age 7-17. We also teach private lessons on a case by case basis for young teens and children visiting from other countries.
◆What is the class size like？
Class size is limited to 6 Students and may be a little as 1.
◆What is the cancellation policy？
Up until 2 weeks before the program start date there is no charge for cancellation。3 days before program start date there is a 50% cancellation fee as certain fixed costs exist and we will be unable to sell your space at that late date. Refunds are not possible once the program begins.
◆What do we tell the immigration officers at the airport？
Please be honest, and straigt forward. Everything in this program conforms to local laws and you are on a "sightseeing" vacation package program.
◆What things will I need in Hawaii？
After your application is confirmed you will receive by e-mail a complete list of all things needed for the activities and classes.
◆I'm not sure about the homestay...what should I do？
While it is usual to feel a bit nervous about your first homestay our families will help you to relax soon. If you decide that it is not for you you can choose guesthouse or hotel accomodations through our Custom program.
◆What are the prices？
1 Week CNC $1590
2 Week CNC $3050
Price includes homestay with 2 meals, English Classes (14 hours per week) all activities, 24 school support.
◆How about the Airline ticket？
Our program price does not include airfare. You must secure and tell us your airline information. Your destination is Kona International Airport. (KOA) There is no restriction on arrival time.
◆When can I find out my host family？
We will ususally inform you of you hostfamily by e-mail at least 10 days prior to arrival.
◆Can I choose the type of host family I get？
Generally the answer is no. Based on your English survey we will try to find a comfortable match. If you have special needs or restrictions please let us know.
◆Can I change the schedule around？
It is possible through our custom Program.
◆How do I get around in my Free Time？
Hawaii island has very limited bus service and no train. There fore we use a variety of methods to get you where you need to go. We can pick you up from the airport, and you can take advantage our our carpool to get you to and from your homestay in the morning and evening. We contract with a variety of activity providers who will pick you up from the school and return you there when finished. During Daily lunchtimes you will be able to walk freely around downtown Kailua-Kona.
◆Can my friend and I stay at the same homestay？
It is sometimes possible but we do not guarantee it.
◆How much pocket money will I need？
The amount will vary per person. Generally you will need to pay for lunches, tips, and shopping. While we cannot predict how much shopping you will do we suggest about $50-80 per week of stay for lunches and tips.
◆How far in advance should I apply？
At the latest we suggest 3 weeks in advance.
◆What can you tell me about the teachers？
Most classes are taught by owner Matt Carter with an occasional substitute teacher.
All teachers have significant experience teaching English around the world.
Owner / Teacher Matt Carter has been teaching English since 1990. During that time he has made it his personal mission to know the subject as deeply as possible. From there he has introduced various techniques of mythology, psychology, spirituality, philosophy, and physical science to ceate a unique approach to language acquisition.
If you have additional questions please CONTACT US here.
Frequently Asked Questions